Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi has marked his 65th birthday by calling for greater service to humanity instead of personal celebrations.
In a message shared on Sunday, July 19, Obi said birthdays should be a time for deep reflection, thanksgiving to God and renewed commitment to improving the lives of others.
He said Nigeria’s current challenges make it difficult to celebrate lavishly while many citizens continue to face poverty, unemployment, poor healthcare and limited opportunities.
According to him, the country’s enormous human and natural resources should translate into better living conditions for all Nigerians.
“The greatest celebration of life is not what we receive from others, but the lives we can touch positively,” Obi said.
He explained that this belief had guided his years in business, the corporate world and his time as governor of Anambra State.
Obi said he had often encouraged people who wished to honour him with expensive gifts or elaborate ceremonies to instead use the resources to support schools, hostels and other projects that benefit the less privileged.
To mark his 65th birthday, Obi said he began the day with a Thanksgiving Mass in Onitsha, where he thanked God for His grace, protection and guidance throughout his life.
After the church service, he visited St. Raphael’s Hospital in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area, where he donated ₦10 million to support the hospital’s healthcare services.
Obi said seeing patients at the rural hospital reminded him that many people struggle to pay their medical bills and deserve compassion, dignity and access to quality healthcare.
He described leadership as caring for people, especially those who cannot repay acts of kindness.
The former Anambra governor also stressed the importance of investing in hospitals and schools, saying they remain two of the most important institutions for any society.
He announced that he would spend the rest of the month visiting schools and hospitals as part of his birthday activities, making modest donations to support their work.
Obi said he wanted his birthday to focus on humanity rather than personal celebration.
He prayed for God’s continued strength, wisdom and humility to serve, adding that the true measure of life is not wealth or honours but the positive impact made on others.
He also prayed for Nigeria to become a united, inclusive and compassionate nation where citizens work together for the country’s progress.
